The Retail Retreat 2025, 27th May, Lyrath Estate | Earlybird Tickets Now Live!
Welcome to The Retail Retreat 2025. Explore the trends, technologies, and strategies redefining retail in Ireland and beyond. From insightful keynote sessions to hands-on workshops and powerful networking opportunities, this year’s Retreat is designed to inspire bold thinking, practical solutions, and collaborative action.
Your Host for the Day – Alan Shortt
With his trademark wit, energy, and engaging personality, Alan will guide us through the day’s sessions, keep the energy high, and ensure every moment runs smoothly. Get ready for insights, inspiration – and a few laughs along the way!
Our Quick View Agenda is perfect for planning your day at a glance. For more information please see our full agenda below.
Your complete guide to everything happening at The Retail Retreat 2025
Registration from 7.30am | Morning Coffee & Networking
Opening AddressJean McCabe, CEO Retail Excellence Ireland
Join us as Jean McCabe, CEO of Retail Excellence Ireland, launches the day with a warm welcome and strategic overview. In this opening address, Jean will provide insights into the organisation’s vision, highlight critical market trends, and address the geo-political landscape impacting Irish retail. The session will culminate with the exciting announcement of Elavon Merchant Services as Retail Excellence Ireland’s new title sponsor, marking a significant milestone in our collaborative journey to help advance the retail sector.
Human + AI: The New Formula for Peak Performances
Edoardo Bortolato, Director with Google Ireland
In this visionary session, Edoardo Bortolato will unveil how the strategic partnership between human intelligence and AI is creating unprecedented opportunities. Drawing on Google’s cutting-edge insights, Edoardo will explore how this powerful combination is redefining what’s possible in business and society. Attendees will discover the emerging AI technologies shaping our future of retail and marketing, and a compelling vision of how human-AI collaboration will evolve in the coming years.
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The 360° Marketing Play BookScott Shashua, Co-Founder of The Couture Club
Discover comprehensive marketing strategies from an entrepreneur who transformed legal training into retail innovation. In this session, Scott Shashua will reveal the integrated marketing approach that has propelled The Couture Club from startup to global fashion brand since 2016.
Scott will share how his company has successfully challenged industry conventions through strategic retail expansion across the UK and Ireland, while building a distinctive brand identity centered on individuality and conscious street-style fashion. Attendees will gain valuable insights into creating cohesive marketing strategies that work across multiple channels and touchpoints to build authentic brand connections and drive sustainable growth.
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Thriving Online: Trading Through Turbulent TimesThis powerful panel brings together Brad Kearns (StudioForty9) with e-commerce experts who have successfully scaled their online operations: Sean Gleeson (McCabes Pharmacy), Fiona Dillon (O’Brien’s Wines) and Hannah Moran (McElhinneys Department Store). Drawing from their extensive experience, heading digital retail strategies, these experts will share their approaches to online customer acquisition, digital marketing optimisation, website conversion tactics, and technology investments that deliver return on investment. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how leading Irish retailers are leveraging digital channels to maintain growth when traditional retail face challenges.
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How Independents Can Stand Out Amongst the CrowdEd Fitzgerald, Independent Retail Consultant
Ed Fitzgerald, Independent Retail Consultant and judge of the Independent Retailer of the Year Award, brings his expert perspective on retail differentiation to this compelling session. Drawing on experience with renowned brands like GANT, Kildare Village, Bicester Village, and Brown Thomas, Ed will open with a focused 10-minute presentation revealing key strategies that help independent retailers compete effectively against larger competitors.
Following Ed’s insights, he’ll lead a panel discussion featuring successful independent retailers who have mastered the art of standing out: Ruth Roberts (Cogs, Toys and Games), Aoibhin Garrihy (beo – Award Finalist), and Paul Harvey (Windyridge Garden Centre – Independent Store of the Year Award Winner 2024). Together, they’ll explore practical approaches to creating distinctive retail experiences, building memorable brand identities, and leveraging unique advantages that independent retailers possess.
This session offers valuable lessons for retailers of all sizes seeking to differentiate themselves in today’s competitive marketplace, with real-world examples from businesses that have successfully captured consumer attention and loyalty.
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Mastering Social Media: The Subtle Sell
Holly Hayes, Former Social Media Manager for The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett
Discover the art of effective social media engagement from Holly Hayes, who helped build one of the most influential business brands on social media. Drawing on her experience managing digital strategy for The Diary of a CEO, Holly will reveal the sophisticated techniques that convert followers into customers without the hard sell.
This session will explore how to create authentic content that resonates with audiences while strategically promoting your retail brand. Holly will share practical insights on developing a distinctive social voice, crafting content that builds trust, integrating product promotion naturally into your feed, and measuring true engagement beyond simple metrics. Learn how today’s most successful retail brands are using subtle persuasion techniques to drive sales through social channels while building lasting customer relationships.
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Minister of State for Small Business, Retail & Circular Economy, Alan Dillon11.15 – 11.40 | Coffee & Networking
The New Retail Workforce: Leading Without LosingPanel Discussion
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Understanding the How, Where and Why of Irish ShoppersDavid O’Kelly, Partner & Head of M&A, KPMG Ireland
Get exclusive access to the latest consumer research on Irish shopping behaviours in this data-driven session. David O’Kelly will present fresh insights into the evolving patterns, preferences, and motivations driving Irish consumer decisions in today’s retail landscape.
This presentation will unveil current trends in shopping channels, spending priorities, and customer expectations specific to the Irish market. Retailers will gain valuable understanding of key factors influencing purchase decisions, emerging consumer segments, and strategic implications for both physical and digital retail operations. David will translate complex data into actionable intelligence that can inform your merchandise selection, marketing approach, and overall business strategy.
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AI in Action: Retail Moves Fast: Petstop is Staying Ahead by Turning Insights into ActionCase Study
Gain practical insights into the real-world application of artificial intelligence in retail from innovators who are leveraging this technology to drive business results. This illuminating case study session features Anthony Gallagher of Petstop alongside John Clancy, Founder of Galvia, who will demonstrate how AI implementation is creating competitive advantages in today’s retail environment.
The presenters will share their journey of AI adoption, including specific tools and strategies that have enhanced their customer experience, streamlined operations, and informed better business decisions. Attendees will discover accessible approaches to implementing AI solutions appropriate for retailers of various sizes, the measurable impact on key performance indicators, and lessons learned during implementation. This forward-looking session offers a roadmap for retailers seeking to harness AI’s potential without requiring deep technical expertise.
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How Embracing Setbacks and Failures Can Become the Foundation to Success
William Diamond, Diamond Furniture – National Retailer of the Year Winner 2024
Gain powerful insights from retail champion William Diamond as he shares the lesser-told story behind Diamond Furniture’s rise to excellence. In this candid presentation, William reveals how setbacks and challenges became the foundation for the strategies that ultimately led to their recognition as National Store of the Year 2024.
With refreshing honesty, William will explore pivotal moments where failure provided critical lessons, how resilience shaped his business approach, and the practical methods his team developed to transform obstacles into opportunities. This motivational session offers both inspiration and actionable takeaways for retailers at every stage of their journey, demonstrating how embracing imperfection can become your greatest competitive advantage.
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SEAI Energy Grant Update Announcement
13.00 – 14.00 | Lunch & Networking
Think Outside the Aisle: Untapped Resources That Can Transform Your Retail Landscape
Gerry Duffy, International Speaker
Discover innovative perspectives and hidden opportunities in retail with renowned international speaker Gerry Duffy. In this thought-provoking session, Gerry will challenge conventional retail thinking and reveal overlooked resources that can create significant competitive advantages for your business.
Drawing on his extensive experience inspiring organisations worldwide, Gerry will explore creative approaches to leveraging existing assets, identifying unexpected partnerships, and reimagining customer experiences. Attendees will gain fresh insights into maximising their people, repurposing physical spaces, and the power of community connections. This energising presentation will equip retailers with practical strategies to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace while optimising resources they already possess.
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Every Sale Tells a Story: Making it Simple Across All ChannelsPresentation & Panel Discussion
Join industry experts as they reveal how to perfect the critical final step in your customer’s journey across all channels. Presented by Eric Horgan, Chief Product Officer of Elavon, this strategic discussion features Paul Dunne, Country Manager, Elavon, Sinead O’Sullivan, founder of Fifth Avenue and Seamus Stapleton, Managing Director, Applegreen.
Our panelists will share insights into creating frictionless transaction experiences that boost conversion rates whether customers shop in-store, online, or over the phone. Discover how leading retailers are streamlining checkout processes, integrating multiple transaction options, and using purchase data to gain valuable customer insights. Learn practical approaches to turning the most decisive moment in the shopping experience into a competitive advantage.
This session offers retailers of all sizes actionable strategies for removing barriers to purchase and creating memorable final impressions that encourage repeat business.
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What’s the Difference? Leadership v ManagementTommy Smyth, Tom Smyth & Associates
Discover the essential distinctions that can transform your retail business in this engaging session with Tommy Smyth. Drawing on his extensive experience in human resource management, Tommy will demystify the crucial differences between leading and managing that impact every level of retail operations.
This practical presentation will reveal how balancing these complementary approaches creates more effective teams, improves customer experiences, and drives business results. Attendees will gain valuable insights into inspiring their staff, creating a positive workplace culture, and implementing systems that ensure consistent excellence. Whether you’re a store owner, department head, or aspiring retail professional, this session offers actionable strategies to enhance your retail business.
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Culture as Strategy: Great Place to Work Visionaries Reshape RetailPanel Discussion
Discover how forward-thinking retailers are using workplace culture as a powerful competitive advantage in this compelling discussion. Join culture experts Gareth McGrane (Chadwicks), Michele Ryan (Carrolls Irish Gifts), and Cathal Divilly (CEO Great Place to Work) as they explore the business impact of creating exceptional employee experiences.
Our distinguished panelists will share practical insights into how cultivating a strong organisational culture drives measurable business results, including increased customer satisfaction, reduced turnover, and improved operational performance. Learn about innovative approaches to employee engagement, leadership development, and building value-driven retail environments that attract and retain top talent even in challenging labour markets.
This session reveals how retailers who invest in creating great workplaces are positioning themselves for sustainable growth and superior customer experiences.
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15.15 – 15.35 | Coffee & Networking
Best of Big Apple Retail! Learn the Latest Innovation and Emerging Retail Trends in New York
Matthew Brown, Leading Retail Futurist, EchoChamber
Step into the future of retail with an exclusive tour of New York’s most innovative store concepts and emerging trends. Matthew Brown, renowned retail futurist from Echochamber, will guide attendees through a visual journey showcasing the cutting-edge strategies and design breakthroughs reshaping the retail landscape in one of the world’s most competitive markets.
This eye-opening presentation will reveal how leading retailers are reimagining physical spaces, integrating digital technologies, and creating memorable customer experiences that drive engagement and sales. Matthew will translate these insights into practical takeaways that Irish retailers can implement to stay ahead of evolving consumer expectations. Discover the next wave of retail innovation from a global perspective and gain inspiration to transform your own retail environment.
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From Zero to Billions: The JD Sports Growth Story
Peter Cowgill, Former CEO & Chairman of JD Sports
Gain unprecedented insights into retail excellence from the visionary who transformed JD Sports into a global powerhouse. Peter Cowgill will share the remarkable journey of growing JD Sports from modest beginnings to a multi-billion-pound retail empire that dominates the sportswear market.
In this exceptional session, Peter will reveal the strategic decisions, bold moves, and leadership principles that drove JD Sports’ extraordinary expansion. Attendees will learn about navigating competitive markets, identifying growth opportunities, building powerful brand partnerships, and creating distinctive customer experiences that drive loyalty. This rare opportunity to hear directly from one of retail’s most successful leaders offers valuable lessons for retailers at every scale seeking to accelerate their growth trajectory.
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17.00 | Final Wrap-Up & Thank You
